KPress Vol. 11 Iss. 02
Jaynes, Bill (2010-12-27). KPress Vol. 11 Iss. 02 (PDF) (Report). Kolonia, Pohnpei: Kaselehlie Press.
- Has attachment: File:ZDJCVPG7.pdf
Abstract: KPress Vol. 11 Iss. 02: NEWS: Pohnpei—Business owners and employees gathered at the Pohnpei State Legislature as lawmakers moved to consider casino-related legislation, with the proposed Micronesian Tourism Complex Development Act and related measures deferred amid public pressure and calls to reconsider the Foreign Investment Act, which had passed second reading and was returned to committee for further review during the January session beginning January 10; reporting provides historical context noting that the Lukop land proposed for the tourism complex was formerly used for rice cultivation, that all rice consumed in Pohnpei is now imported, and that a 1995 legislative approval for a five-star hotel on the former rice lands never materialized; a joint legislative committee comprising members from Resources and Development, Judiciary and Governmental Operations, and Finance assessed the merits of the bill and met with representatives of the Catholic Church, who voiced strong opposition to the proposal; diplomatic coverage reports remarks by Japanese Ambassador Shoji Sato characterizing the year as especially important for Japan–FSM relations, referencing President Mori’s November visit to Tokyo, Prime Minister Kan’s statements affirming FSM as a key regional partner, and progress during Sato’s tenure, including major Official Development Assistance projects such as the $32.3 million Pohnpei International Airport Improvement Project nearing completion, non-project grant aid for diesel fuel, solar power systems funded through environmental grant aid, and the ongoing presence of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers and Senior Volunteers in the FSM, alongside renovation work at Xavier High School completed by Mabuchi Construction; OPINION / EDITORIAL: commentary discusses a Department of Justice opinion recommending lifting a suspension and reflects on education as foundational to economic opportunity, community well-being, self-respect, and personal and professional fulfillment.
